Wet Wrap Therapy

Wet wraps are used to help moisturize and soothe the skin of patients suffering from eczema. In short, treatment involves wrapping children in wet clothing, which can ease the symptoms of eczema.

What is eczema?

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition, the exact cause of which is unknown. Patients can experience intense itchiness and pain from the condition, which can lead to damage when children scratch at their skin. Eczema can affect any part of the skin, but most frequently appears on the arms and around the knees.

Why wet wraps?

Wet wraps offer a safe, easy therapy for patients that can dramatically reduce the symptoms of eczema. It is used in combination with topical steroids and moisturizers only. The medication is applied closest to the skin (if instructed by your child’s provider), then moisturizer is applied over the medication. The wet wrap is then applied and covered with a dry item, which seals in the moisture and medication near the skin. It's easy to choose an appropriate clothing item for the affected body part, like white socks for hands and feet, or washcloths, towels or long-john pajamas for larger areas.